I applied in-person. The process took 2 days. I interviewed at Staples (Washington, DC) in Feb 2018
Interview
Standard sit down interview, questions about history on customer service, about motivations, and about expectations. Nothing extraordinary. It took about 30 minutes and I received confirmation about being hired within two days.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a time when you were overwhelmed at work or school and how you handled it.
I applied in-person. The process took 5 days. I interviewed at Staples (Sioux City, IA) in Oct 2013
Interview
Given my prior experience with the company, my interview process was expedited. I was interviewed by the General Manager directly and was told that I would be offered the job - the details were that I would receive a set schedule, that I would be offered a specific amount of money, and would be eligible for a raise after my 90 review.
Upon agreeing to the position, on my first day I was told that the position I accepted was not available and that I would be put in a different position, paid $1 less than what was agreed to, and would have a different shift.
After working that position for over 90 days (and never receiving a review despite asking), I decided that I liked the position enough that I was willing to overlook the promises that were made to me and never kept. Then shortly after, I was told that I would be "promoted" to a different position with no pay increase, a completely variable schedule, and more accountability for things that were out of my control.
All in all, don't believe anything that you are told in the interview. They will lie to you to get another warm body in the door, use you until you're completely broken, and then discard you.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Tell me about a time when you dealt with a difficult customer.
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Staples (Newton, NJ) in Sept 2011
Interview
Easy interview process. Friendly manager. Hired on the spot. Called in, met manager, lasted thirty minutes, asked if I had questions. Told me the requirements. That was really it. It was quick and simple.